Born in Oshawa on June 6, 1943, to Thelma (Ferguson) and Clayton Wannamaker at Oshawa General Hospital, Gary wasted no time getting started in life. At just 15 years old, he began working at General Motors on “The Boys Line”, a fitting start for someone who rarely sat still.
Gary Laverne Wannamaker also didn’t believe in waiting around when it came to matters of the heart. He married the love of his life, Carol (Helcoe) in 1961 at the age of 16. Apparently, patience was never one of Gary’s virtues. Together they built a life and family, welcoming daughter Cheryl (McGill) in 1961, son Paul Wannamaker in 1962, and son Don Wannamaker in 1964 (predeceased in 2023).
After an impressive career at General Motors, Gary retired in 1989 at the remarkably young age of 46. Retirement, however, simply meant trading in his work boots for golf shoes and a hammer. He spent countless hours perfecting his golf game and proudly achieved what many golfers only dream of, joining the hole-in-one club not once, but twice. Whether renovating a house or lining up a putt, Gary approached everything with determination, skill, and the firm belief that if it was worth doing, it was worth doing himself.
Gary is lovingly remembered by his grandchildren and their spouses: Christopher Wannamaker & Edward Wang, Ryan & Jean-Luc Wannamaker, Laura McGill, and Robert McGill & Jenna Trimble. He also leaves behind his cherished great-grandchildren, Matthew, Michaela, and Aislinn.
Gary was predeceased by his beloved wife Carol in 2005 but was fortunate to find love again later in life with Lorraine Smith, who remained by his side and shared many happy years with him. He also leaves behind Lorraine’s family, Jason and Kyle Smith and their families.
A devoted Blue Jays fan until the very end, Gary’s final words to his family summed up both his love of baseball and his outlook on life: “There’s no crying in baseball.”
Per Gary’s wishes, there will be no formal service. Instead, he would encourage everyone to skip the suits, enjoy a round of golf, watch the Blue Jays, and think of him whenever you hit a great shot or miss an easy putt.
Online condolences may be made at www.oshawafuneralhome.com
